Kent State University

What you'll study

This programme combines core communication theory with extensive practical production work. You will study audio and video production techniques, scriptwriting, reporting and storytelling for broadcast and digital platforms, media law and ethics, and audience research. Coursework typically includes modules in:

• Foundations of Communication – media history, theory and the role of broadcast media in society.
• Audio Production – studio and field recording, editing, sound design and podcast production.
• Video Production – camera operation, lighting, directing, nonlinear editing and multicamera studio practice.
• Broadcast Journalism – newsgathering, reporting for radio and television, on‑air presentation and newsroom workflows.
• Digital Media and Multimedia Storytelling – creating content for web and social platforms, mobile journalism, and cross‑platform storytelling strategies.
• Media Law and Ethics – legal principles, regulation affecting broadcast media and ethical decision making.
• Production Management and Technical Operations – broadcast systems, signal flow, and the technical infrastructure of radio/TV operations.
• Capstone Projects and Internships – semester-long production projects and supervised professional placements with local or regional media organisations.

Courses are delivered through a mix of lectures, studio labs, field production projects and collaborative assignments. Students gain practical experience via student-run radio and television operations, editing suites and multimedia labs, preparing a professional portfolio of audio and video work.

Entry requirements

Admissions to the bachelor’s programme typically require a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants should have a strong grounding in English and communication skills. Typical expectations include:

• High school graduation or recognised equivalent.
• Academic preparation in English; coursework in media, technology or the arts is advantageous.
• A competitive academic record; review of transcripts is used to assess readiness for degree coursework.
• International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional pathways where applicable.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; prior coursework in communication or production can be evaluated for credit.

Some applicants choose to submit a short portfolio or examples of media work (audio clips, video links, writing samples) to demonstrate interest and experience, though a portfolio is not universally mandatory. Prospective students are encouraged to consult Kent State’s admissions guidance for programme‑specific recommendations.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical production skills and a portfolio that supports entry into a range of media and communication roles. Common career paths include:

• Radio producer, on‑air personality or station operations staff.
• Television producer, camera operator, editor or studio director.
• Digital content producer, social media manager and multiplatform storyteller.
• Broadcast journalist, field reporter or news producer.
• Audio engineer, podcast producer or sound designer.
• Production coordinator, media planner or roles in corporate communications and public relations.

Graduates also move into related industries such as advertising, event production, and web video creation; many start freelance careers or progress into specialist technical roles. Internships and industry placements arranged through the programme help students build professional networks in local and regional media markets.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State offers a hands‑on approach with access to professional‑style studios, editing suites and hardware used in industry. The programme is embedded within a communication and journalism environment that emphasises real‑world production experience, allowing students to work on live student media projects and client commissions.

Faculty bring a mix of academic and industry experience and the school supports internship placements with local broadcasters, production companies and digital agencies, helping students transition into the media workforce. The university’s location gives students proximity to regional media markets for internships and employment, while extracurricular opportunities let students build visible, portfolio‑ready work before graduation.